Trump renames the Department of Defense back to the ‘Department of War.’ Pete Hegseth explains what the controversial change means for America’s military.
President Donald Trump has signed his 200th executive order, announcing that the Department of Defense (DoD) will now be renamed the Department of War — reviving a title last used in 1949.
Explaining the move, Trump said:
“We won World War I, we won World War II, and everything in between, and then we decided to go woke and changed the name to DoD. Now we’re going back to the Department of War. It’s a much more appropriate name for the times we’re in. It sends a message of victory.”
The Pentagon’s website was also updated to war.gov, displaying the new title, “U.S. Department of War.”
Hegseth: ‘We’re Going to Fight to Win’
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, now officially titled Secretary of War, backed the change in a fiery statement.
“We’re going to go on offense, not just defense. Maximum lethality, not tepid legality. Violent effect, not politically correct. We’re going to raise up warriors, not just defenders.”
Hegseth said the rebranding would “set the tone for the country,” adding that peace comes through strength.
He also posted online:
“Those who long for peace, must prepare for war. The War Department will be ready—every day and in every way—to ensure Americans live in peace.”
— Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) September 5, 2025
Criticism and Backlash
Historians note the original name was changed after World War II to highlight America’s focus on peacekeeping. Critics argue this new move is both unnecessary and alarming.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) condemned the change as a “dangerous distraction”, while Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey said it was a “childish idea”, stressing that “Americans want to prevent wars, not glorify them.”
Even some veterans voiced discomfort. One wrote on social media:
“I’m a vet and a strong supporter of this administration, but I don’t like the change. It makes it feel like we’re in business for the sake of war.”
Others mocked the announcement, joking about renaming Cabinet roles with titles like “Master of Ships” and “Lord of Whispers.”
A Divisive Move
Whether seen as bold leadership or reckless branding, Trump and Hegseth’s revival of the Department of War has sparked intense debate. For some, it signals strength. For others, it raises concerns about America’s direction in global politics.
